Next week is Race Equality Week, an annual campaign across the UK launched to address the barriers to race equality in the workplace. This year’s theme of #ListenActChange builds on 2023’s theme of #itsEveryonesBusiness and encourages everyone to focus on taking action against racism and inequality.

Statistics shared by Race Equality Matters reflect ongoing findings, and feedback that:

• Only 25% of the REM community believe their organisation focuses on action, change and impact.
• Around 44% shared that their senior leaders and managers are committed to tackling race inequality.
• Only 21% shared that their senior leaders and managers are making an impact in tackling race inequality.

The University of Sussex is committed to eliminating racial inequalities, and we work hard to evidence our commitment and pledge as described in our Inclusive Sussex and a Better University for a Better World strategies.

In September 2023, the University received the Race Equality Charter Institutional Bronze award, acknowledging our commitment to eliminating racial inequalities and developing an inclusive culture at Sussex. We are committed to ensuring University of Sussex tackles inequalities and maintains an inclusive culture, and you can read more about the award. 

Our Ethnic Minority Staff Network relaunched in 2022 and meets termly, providing support to staff who define themselves as belonging to a minority ethnic group. The network presents staff the opportunity to connect with colleagues, share ideas and discuss ways in which Sussex can further reduce inequalities, and celebrate diversity. Please email bame-staff@sussex.ac.uk if you would like to be a part of the network.

Further resources and support:

• Union Black Antiracism programme online learning: Understanding Black British History: Online Learning.
  
  
• Staff can report bullying or harassment through the Report and Support Tool.
  
  
• Staff can contact a Dignity and Respect Champion
  
  
• Further EDI training

• Learn more about the Race Equality Charter (REC).
  
  

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